No Galliano, no Tisci, no Theysken,...but this guy ???
There's this really misaligned idea that, because someone did really well at one house that they will do well at all other houses and that is simply not true. Olivier did well at Nina Ricci by changing things up, executives didn't like it. So, even with his track record- why would Bruno/Chanel decide to bring him to Chanel.
Galliano is too radical an artist and too deep an artisan to manage the rigor and restraint of Chanel and its militant codes. Tisci was a genius with Givenchy but was very terrible at Burberry, we must admit that. It was not the right fit.
Blazy's past portfolio and gigs align him well. Sure, he's not as outright well known as those listed; but he's got the chops. Chanel is picky, they took 6mo to get this going and announce it. As NYT's Vanessa wrote, Virginie was very much a placeholder. Which was sad for her, but not a surprise. The ways that her collections just weren't enough compared to Karl - that's important observation.
I am excited to see what Matthieu does. And, you know what, at least he's french taking over a french house.
I hope this draws more meaning, culturally, for the house in a new way. Karl forever. Virginie, thank you for your work.
Mattieu - don't f*ck it up.
Appointment announced. Let's move forward.